Atlas Shrugged

Generated by ABC Amber LIT Converter, http://www.processtext.com/abclit.html

---

 "Why didn't he?" she asked.
"Because he found that it couldn't be brought down."
The man who sat in front of Rearden's desk had vague features and a manner devoid of all emphasis, so
that one could form no specific image of his face nor detect the driving motive of his person. His only
mark of distinction seemed to be a bulbous nose, a bit too large for the rest of him; his manner was
meek, but it conveyed a preposterous hint, the hint of a threat deliberately kept furtive, yet intended to be
recognized. Rearden could not understand the purpose of his visit. He was Dr. Potter, who held some
undefined position with the State Science Institute.
"What do you want?" Rearden asked for the third time.
"It is the social aspect that I am asking you to consider, Mr.
Rearden," the man said softly, "I urge you to take note of the age we're living in. Our economy is not
ready for it."
"For what?"
"Our economy is in a state of extremely precarious equilibrium. We all have to pool our efforts to save it
from collapse."
"Well, what is it you want me to do?"
"These are the considerations which I was asked to call to your attention. I am from the State Science
Institute, Mr. Rearden."
"You've said so before. But what did you wish to see me about?"
"The State Science Institute does not hold a favorable opinion of Rearden Metal."
"You've said that, too."
"Isn't that a factor which you must take into consideration?"
"No."
The light was growing dim in the broad windows of the office. The days were short. Rearden saw the
irregular shadow of the nose on the man's cheek, and the pale eyes watching him; the glance was vague,
but its direction purposeful.
"The State Science Institute represents the best brains of the country, Mr. Rearden."
"So I'm told."
"Surely you do not want to pit your own judgment against theirs?"
"I do."